Herniated Disk vs. Spondylolisthesis

A herniated disk and spondylolisthesis are two potentially painful conditions that can affect the stability and function of the spinal column. While herniation affects the discs between the spinal bones (vertebrae), spondylolisthesis affects the bones themselves.

Herniated Disks

• In a disk herniation, portions of the soft interior of a spinal disk leak out through ruptures in the disk’s hardened exterior layer into the area of the spinal cord, explains the Mayo Clinic.

Spondylolisthesis

• In spondylolisthesis, a spinal bone slips out of place and abnormally contacts the bone sitting below it, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

Herniated Disk Causes

• Strain and physical trauma are among the causes of herniated disks, according to Medline Plus. Most herniated disks occur in the lower (lumbar) portion of the spine.

Spondylolisthesis Causes

• Some forms of spondylolisthesis are present at birth (congenital), while others result from degeneration of the spinal disks or from the effects of spondylosis, a spinal condition that can weaken the vertebrae through the formation of stress fractures, the Cleveland Clinic reports.

Treatments

• Treatment options for both herniated disks and spondylolisthesis include rest, activity modifications, use of pain medications, physical therapy and surgery, according to the Mayo Clinic and the Cleveland Clinic.